The current economic climate presents challenges for business owners looking to buy or lease commercial real estate. With rising interest rates and inflation, costs for financing, construction, and rent have surged, making it crucial for entrepreneurs to be strategic when securing a property.

Key Steps for Business Owners

1. Create a Flexible Plan
   Develop a plan with conservative financial projections. Account for various interest rate and growth scenarios to avoid surprises down the road.
2. Engage with Your Banker Early
   Involve your financial institution early in the process. Your banker can help assess your affordability and possibly pre-approve you, giving you leverage to act quickly in a competitive market.
3. Ensure Adequate Financing
   When purchasing, aim to secure enough financing to cover contingencies like moving costs or construction delays. This prevents having to dip into working capital for unexpected expenses.
4. Consider Fixed vs. Variable Rates Based on Risk
   Instead of trying to predict interest rate trends, consider your risk tolerance. A variable rate can offer flexibility but may also expose you to financial strain if rates rise. A fixed rate, though predictable, could lock you into higher payments over time.
5. Improve Operational Efficiency
   Boosting operational efficiency, including optimizing workforce and inventory management, can reduce space requirements. Remote work trends may also allow you to consider smaller or multi-use spaces.
6. Negotiate Rent Increases
   Even in tight markets, negotiating lease renewal terms can be beneficial. Landlords may prefer retaining a good tenant over the hassle of finding new ones, especially as the economy cools.
7. Take a Long-Term View
   Despite higher rates, purchasing commercial property remains a sound investment in the long run. Real estate builds equity, can serve as collateral, and potentially provides retirement income.

With careful planning and strategic decision-making, business owners can navigate the complexities of the current commercial real estate landscape, positioning themselves for both short-term stability and long-term growth.